Tuition Incentive Program (TIP)

TIP turns qualifying Medicaid history into postsecondary access through an initial pathway and a later transfer phase.

The main coverage rule is 24 months of Michigan Medicaid within a 36-month period between age 9 and high-school completion. Students need current-year FAFSA, a diploma or equivalent before age 20 (exceptions apply to Early/Middle College and special-education programs), Michigan residency, eligible citizenship status, at least half-time enrollment, and SAP. Begin within four years after high school; Phase II requires a certificate, associate degree, or 56 transferable credits.

Look for an eligibility letter and check MiSSG; file FAFSA and list the participating college. If the benefit does not appear, contact Mi Student Aid before enrolling and ask it to verify Medicaid records with MDHHS. Coordinate Phase II with a transfer adviser once you have 56 credits or an associate degree; document certification and transfer timing before changing schools.

Who it serves and what it can cover: Phase I covers eligible certificate/associate tuition and fees; Phase II supports a bachelor’s up to $2,000 under 2026–27 rules.

How to apply or get help: Look for an eligibility letter and check MiSSG; file FAFSA and list the participating college. If the benefit does not appear, contact Mi Student Aid before enrolling and ask it to verify Medicaid records with MDHHS. Coordinate Phase II with a transfer adviser once you have 56 credits or an associate degree; document certification and transfer timing before changing schools. For case-specific questions, contact the program or financial-aid office named on its official page.

Official application and program information